* Chlorine's reaction with water: When chlorine gas (Cl₂) dissolves in water, it undergoes a disproportionation reaction. This means that the chlorine atoms in the molecule are both oxidized and reduced. The reaction is:
Cl₂ + H₂O ⇌ HClO + HCl
* Formation of hypochlorous acid: This reaction produces hypochlorous acid (HClO), which is a weak acid, and hydrochloric acid (HCl), which is a strong acid.
* Acidic nature: Since HCl is a strong acid, it readily dissociates in water, releasing hydrogen ions (H⁺), which are responsible for the acidic nature of the solution. While HClO is a weak acid, it still contributes to the overall acidity of the solution.
Therefore, the solution formed when chlorine dissolves in water is acidic, not basic.
